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March 18, 2020
For immediate release

March 18 City of Johnson City COVID-19 update regarding Parks and Recreation

Effective 5 p.m. today (Wednesday, March 18), Johnson City recreation facilities will be closed until further notice with the exception of this week’s spring break camps. This includes Memorial Park Community Center/Senior Center, Carver Recreation Center, and the Langston Centre.

Spring break camps currently under way at Memorial Park and Carver will continue as scheduled through Friday. Parks and Recreation staff will contact those currently enrolled in next week’s spring break camp regarding its cancellation.

Senior Services congregate meals will remain available via curbside pickup starting Thursday. Senior Services staff will contact congregate meal participants for details regarding meal distribution.

Rentals of all facilities, including pavilions and ballfields, are suspended until further notice.

Parks, playgrounds and Pine Oaks Golf Course will remain open. The City urges citizens to participate in outdoor activities so long as they are in small groups and maintain a safe distance between one another.

Free guided nature hikes will be offered during the next several weeks. Each hike will be limited to 10 participants. To register for one of these hikes, contact Program Coordinator Connie Deegan at 423-283-5821.

Hikes at Jacob’s Nature Park at Sinking Creek, 1254-1342 King Springs Road, will be held on the following dates:

  • Tuesday, March 24 (10-11:30 a.m.)
  • Wednesday, March 25 (1-2:30 p.m.)
  • Thursday, March 26 (10-11:30 a.m.)

Hikes at Winged Deer Park, 4137 Bristol Highway, featuring bluebell wildflowers will be held on the following dates:

  • Sunday March 29 (1-2 p.m.)
  • Monday, March 30 (10:30-11:45 a.m.)
  • Thursday, April 2 (10:30-11:45 a.m.)
  • Friday, April 3, (6-7:15 p.m.)

 Additional nature programming for small groups may be added in the coming weeks, and plans will be announced as soon as possible.

 “As we practice social distancing and avoid being in groups indoors, it is crucial to Go. All. Outside,” said James Ellis, Parks and Recreation director. “We know families may be searching for alternative activities to enjoy together at this time, and our parks afford a multitude of opportunities. Hike, bike, walk, run ... we encourage everyone to get as much sunshine and fresh air as possible.”

For more information about our outdoor offerings, please visit www.johnsoncitytn.org/parksrec.

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